PIP Assessment Changes January 2018: all 1.6 million cases to be reviewed

The Department of Work & Pensions has revealed it will review a total of 1.6 million PIP claims after court ruling deemed it discriminatory to those with mental health issues.

Ministers made changes to PIP in March 2017 and as a result: ‘people who were unable to travel independently on the grounds of psychological distress – as opposed to other conditions – were not entitled to the enhanced mobility rate of the benefit.’

Over the last ten months, we have seen a substantial increase in PIP focused support. As application processes and assessments can be both distressing and confusing for those with poor mental health and other conditions, sometimes people have difficulty in explaining how their condition affects them so there is a risk that they will be wrongly assessed.

The role of independent advocacy can provide assistance in many cases including;

To help those prepare, understand and take part in meetings and assessments

Provide support at the actual meetings and assessments, alongside the person

Support people to engage with specialist welfare agencies for the appropriate advice

including supporting people to attend this appointment with these agencies if necessary.

If you think independent advocacy could help you and would like information or support at an upcoming assessment, please contact us on 0141 775 0433 or info@ceartas.org.uk